GREAT FALLS — Judicial forums rarely promise excitement, yet the late September forum in Great Falls, hosted by the Montana Farmers Union, proved otherwise. The four nonpartisan candidates for the Montana Supreme Court revealed how gripping their races truly are. The forum showcased candidates competing for two open seats, with notable figures adding to the excitement.
State district court judges Katherine Bidegaray and Dan Wilson are contesting for the associate justice position held by Justice Dirk Sandefur. Meanwhile, Cory Swanson and Jeremiah “Jerry” Lynch aim to replace outgoing Chief Justice Mike McGrath.
Even though candidates can’t officially run with party labels, political groups have flooded the campaign with mailers and ads, a common practice in Montana’s judicial races. During the Great Falls event, candidates addressed the political atmosphere but emphasized their dedication to retaining judicial independence.
“We can’t control who supports us, really, or what they do,” Bidegaray stated. “We only have the ability to control ourselves.” Bidegaray and Wilson, focusing on their legal expertise, distanced themselves from political narratives, unlike Swanson and Lynch, who have used these narratives in their campaigns.
‘THE VOTERS CAN MAKE OF IT WHAT THEY WILL’
In forums, Bidegaray and Wilson have emphasized their decades of legal experience and commitment to impartial rulings. Bidegaray, elected four times to her district court seat, has tackled cases across multiple counties, while Wilson has served as a judge in Flathead County since 2017. Each candidate has made headlines in prominent cases, like Wilson’s ruling during the COVID pandemic and Bidegaray’s Black Butte Mine decision, later overturned by the Montana Supreme Court.
Political ads have portrayed them with partisan leanings. The American Civil Liberties Union and Wild Montana Voter Fund back Bidegaray, citing her stance on abortion and public lands. Conversely, the Montana Republican State Central Committee supports Wilson for his conservative judiciary approach. Bidegaray insists she is committed to upholding individual rights in the Montana Constitution. Wilson, not swayed by endorsements, firmly adheres to judicial obedience to the law.
‘A POLITICAL ATTACK’
Lynch and Swanson’s chief justice contest mirrors the associate justice race, with different backers and rhetoric. Lynch, supported by progressive groups, draws from his extensive federal court experience to defend constitutional rights. Swanson, backed by Republicans, has a varied career, including lobbying and serving as Broadwater County Attorney. Lynch’s criticisms of the legislature’s actions highlight his focus on judicial independence, while Swanson accuses Lynch of partisan leanings.
Swanson criticizes Lynch’s perceived endorsements of Democratic figures, arguing for maintaining a nonpartisan stance. Their confrontations over past cases and endorsements show a tense dynamic, with Swanson emphasizing judicial restraint and Lynch stressing constitutional defense.
THE ROAD TILL NOVEMBER
Significant funding from political groups like the Montana Republican State Central Committee and the American Civil Liberties Union shapes the Supreme Court races. Organizations such as Montanans for Fair and Impartial Courts advocate for their preferred candidates, with contributions from liberal and conservative supporters.
Future forums, like the upcoming one in Billings hosted by the Montana Farm Bureau, provide opportunities for candidates to address voters directly. Absentee ballots are set for release on Oct. 11, leading to the election on Nov. 5.
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